Lakers defeat Trail Blazers in thrilling fashion, 107-106

Eric Pincus

Wesley Johnson dunked an in-bounds pass from Kent Bazemore with 6.9 seconds left on the clock, stealing a 107-106 win in Portland against the Blazers.

After exploding with a 33-point first quarter, the Lakers saw their lead gradually shrink until the Blazers took their first lead since of the second half with 34.6 seconds left on a Damian Lillard free throw.

The Blazers had one final chance to score but the Lakers suffocated Lillard defensively and his three-point attempt didn't fall.

The Lakers win their second-straight game, improving to 21-39 on the season.

Pau Gasol led all scorers with 22 points along with nine rebounds and five assists. Jodie Meeks scored 21 while Johnson and Bazemore both scored 14.

The Lakers shot 45.7% from the field, but turned the ball over 17 times. After an 8-1 offensive rebounding advantage through the first quarter, the Lakers gave up a 19-4 advantage on the offensive glass through the final three periods.

LaMarcus Aldridge led the Blazers with 21 points. Lillard had 20 points with five assists. Robin Lopez had a big night with 19 points, 16 rebounds and three blocks. Nicolas Batum scored 17 with 15 rebounds and five assists.

The Lakers shot 47.9% from the field. The Blazers shot 45.9%, along with 13 turnovers. Portland made up for the Lakers' early 8-1 advantage on the offensive glass, finishing the third up 12-10 for the game.